Pharmaceutical Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources. UNDP operates in 170 countries and territories, working closely with governments and communities to address global and national development challenges. The organization focuses on empowering lives and building resilient nations through integrated development solutions. Since 2003, UNDP has been a trusted partner of The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, providing technical assistance and policy support in over 53 countries. UNDP emphasizes proactive risk management and sustainability in its portfolio management approach, ensuring compliance with grant agreements and strengthening health service delivery.

Job Overview:
The Pharmaceutical Analyst position is crucial for ensuring the quality assurance and compliance of pharmaceuticals and health products procured under the Global Fund programme in Nepal. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Project Manager and the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist. The role involves reviewing pharmaceutical data, monitoring supply chains, and ensuring adherence to both national and international drug regulations. The Pharmaceutical Analyst will collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, suppliers, and health institutions, to guarantee the safe distribution of quality-assured medicines across Nepal. This position requires a strong understanding of quality assurance protocols and the ability to engage with multiple partners to enhance health service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Pharmaceutical Analyst will be responsible for conducting quality assurance checks on pharmaceuticals, ensuring laboratory analysis and testing meet national and international standards. This includes reviewing Certificates of Analysis from suppliers, coordinating with the Department of Drug Administration to report substandard products, and collaborating with the procurement team to verify health product specifications. The role also involves staying updated with WHO guidelines, supporting the registration of new health products, identifying risks in the supply chain, and preparing reports on pharmaceutical quality assessments. Additionally, the analyst will engage with stakeholders to provide technical assistance and support capacity-building initiatives, ensuring compliance with UNDP’s Gender and Social Inclusion policy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with an additional 2 years of relevant experience will be considered. A minimum of 2 years of experience in pharmaceutical analysis, quality assurance, or regulatory affairs is required for those with a master’s degree, while 4 years of experience is necessary for those with a bachelor’s degree. Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential, along with familiarity with Nepal’s drug regulatory framework and global pharmaceutical standards. Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and Good Distribution Practices (GDP) is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in these fields may also qualify if they have additional relevant experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of pharmaceutical analysis and quality assurance in a public health context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master’s degree, or 4 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience should be in pharmaceutical analysis, quality assurance, or regulatory affairs, preferably within national and international organizations or the public health sector. Familiarity with procurement policies specific to donor-funded programs is advantageous, as is experience in public health programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Nepali is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with team members, stakeholders, and suppliers.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a collaborative effort to implement health programs under the Global Fund in Nepal. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a safe working environment. Selected candidates may undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to UNDP’s standards and principles. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.